With an abundance of five-star retreats to choose from in the UK, only a select few hotels have managed to balance luxury and laughter to satisfy both the grown-ups and the kids in equal measure. Below is our pick of the top luxury addresses.
The Arch London, Marble Arch: For city kids
The Arch London is the perfect place for families to stay whilst exploring the vibrant capital city. The hotel offers a package which accommodates up to three guests per room, with connecting rooms available on request. Little ones will be treated to an indulgent experience throughout their stay with a host of family amenities such as children’s sized bathrobes and slippers, as well as a speciality Archie Bear. There is a large toy box filled with toys and a wide selection of children’s books to be enjoyed with complimentary cookies with milk. In the hotel’s stylish restaurant Hunter 486, young children will dine complimentary with their parents throughout their stay with kids sized cutlery, plus colouring books. Each morning the whole family will be treated to a complimentary English breakfast before setting off to explore the city. The Family Fun Package starts at £390 per night.
Address: 50 Great Cumberland Pl, London W1H 7FD / 020 7724 4700
Babington House, Somerset: For active kids
Set in 18 acres of parkland, Babington House hotel boasts its own lake, tennis courts and croquet lawn. There are 32 decent-sized and lavishly-designed bedrooms, while the retreat’s split-level mini-houses are ideal for families. The Little House kids club is open daily and offers free crèche facilities for children from 12 months and up. During the summer holidays, the hotel offers cooking classes and outdoor activities. For the colder months, the hotel even has a small cinema with sink-in chairs showing a variety of family-friendly films.
Address: Frome BA11 3RW / 01373 812266
Four Seasons Hotel, Hampshire: For countryside kids
Set amid 500 acres of luscious green fields, children can admire the beautiful British countryside while watching the hotel’s horses frolic in the surrounding paddocks. Infants can embark on atreasure hunt or play a game of Frisbee,while parents take advantage of the spa. Other activities to keep the kids entertained, include cycling, croquet, tennis, boating on the Basingstoke Canal or even “owning a pony” for a day.
Address: Dogmersfield Park, Chalky Ln, Hook RG27 8TD / 01252 853000
Chesterfield Hotel, Mayfair: For toy-hungry kids
On the doorstep of Hamley’s, The Chesterfield Mayfair boasts arguably the best location for toy-hungry children. Inside the hotel, kids might even spot a sighting of Charlie & the Chocolate Factory’s very own Willy Wonka, whilst sampling the hotel’s Charlie and The Chesterfield Afternoon Tea. The offering provides kids with a golden egg, a chocolate Wonka bar, and a golden ticket. For children, the Little OopmaLoompa Afternoon Tea consists of peanut butter and jam sandwiches, a selection of Wonkatastic pastries and delights, and a choice of a milkshake or a sophisticated tea.
Address: 35 Charles St, London W1J 5EB / 020 7491 2622
